Additionally, Edward Ebanks, Augustin Perez, Telmo Camargo and Sergio Perez were also cited for failing to have written permission for the lease they were fishing.

Enforcement agents were responding to complaints of oyster theft from private leases in lower Jefferson Parish when they observed the subjects dredging for oysters in the area of Bayou St. Denis. During the vessel inspections, the agents contacted the LDWF Oyster Survey Section and were able to determine that the subjects were removing oysters from three different private leases without permission.

The unlawful taking of oysters off a private lease carries a fine up to $950, or imprisonment not more than 120 days, or both plus court costs. Failing to have written permission carries a fine up to $750, or imprisonment not more than 120 days, or both plus court costs.

185 sacks of oysters were seized and returned to the water during the investigation.